East Texas representative faces backlash over speaker support

TYLER — According to our news partner KETK, a second state representative from East Texas is under intense pressure to switch his support as Texas House Republicans fight over who will be the next speaker. Rep. David Cook, R-Mansfield, won the endorsement from the House GOP caucus, but Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, claims to have a bipartisan majority. This battle, as Burrows seeks democratic support, has led Republicans who support Burrows to walk a fine line.

In recent days, the GOP has threatened to campaign against anyone who supports Burrows, such as Rep. Cole Hefner, R-Mount Pleasant, who has already faced backlash over his choice. Yet Hefner remains adamant in backing Burrows for the seat.

The Texas GOP has also threatened to censure any Republican who does not vote for Cook and has sent text messages to lawmakers like East Texas Rep. Cody Harris threatening to campaign against them.

“He has a clear, proven conservative track record to reign in local government overreach, fight to lower what cities and counties can raise our property taxes without a vote of the people. He was instrumental in moving constitutional carry, the heartbeat bill, the property tax relief package that we had last session. He’s from rural Texas where he understands water issues, he understands private property rights. We have David Cook, who is a moderate. He voted to ban fracking when he was mayor of Mansfield.”
Rep. Cole Hefner, District 5.

“My constituents didn’t send me down there to follow the crowd. They sent me down there to do what I think is right and I think Dustin Burrows is the conservative leader we need, and that’s what’s right for House District 5, so that’s where my vote will be going,” Hefner said. “I don’t do threats, I don’t respond to threats. I’ve got a rock solid conservative voting record, and my record speaks for itself.”

Hefner remains committed to the conservative agenda which includes addressing border security, school choice, property rights and taxes.

“What unites conservatives is policy. We’re sitting here squabbling over process and committees,” Hefner said.

Burrow supporters could see potential challengers in the next primary election, but for Hefner, he will continue to do what is right.

“If I lose doing what’s right, so be it. Maybe that’s what the Lord has in mind. I don’t think so, but you know, I’m going to do what I think is right,” Hefner said.